Alendronate oral solution

What is this medicine?

ALENDRONATE (a LEN droe nate) slows calcium loss from bones. It helps to make normal healthy bone and to slow bone loss in people with Paget's disease and osteoporosis. It may be used in others at risk for bone loss.

How should I use this medicine?

You must take this medicine exactly as directed or you will lower the amount of the medicine you absorb into your body or you may cause yourself harm. Take your dose by mouth first thing in the morning, after you are up for the day. Do not eat or drink anything before you take this solution. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure the oral solution. Take the solution with 2 fluid ounces (1/4 cup) of plain water. Do not take the solution with any other drink. After taking this medicine do not eat breakfast, drink, or take any other medicines or vitamins for at least 30 minutes. Stand or sit up for at least 30 minutes after you take this medicine; do not lie down. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take this medicine on the same day every week.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

black or tarry stools

bone, muscle, or joint pain

changes in vision

chest pain

heartburn or stomach pain

jaw pain, especially after dental work

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

trouble or pain when swallowing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

changes in taste

diarrhea or constipation

eye pain or itching

headache

nausea or vomiting

stomach gas or fullness

What may interact with this medicine?

aluminum hydroxide

antacids

aspirin

calcium supplements

drugs for inflammation like ibuprofen, naproxen, and others

iron supplements

magnesium supplements

vitamins with minerals

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take the dose on the morning after you remember. Then take your next dose on your regular day of the week. Never take 2 doses on the same day. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

esophagus, stomach, or intestine problems, like acid reflux or GERD

dental disease

kidney disease

low blood calcium

low vitamin D

problems swallowing

problems sitting or standing for 30 minutes

an unusual or allergic reaction to alendronate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. It may be some time before you see benefit from this medicine. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Your doctor or health care professional may order regular blood tests to see how you are doing.

You should make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet while you are taking this medicine, unless your doctor tells you not to. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

Some people who take this medicine have severe bone, joint, and/or muscle pain. This medicine may also increase your risk for a broken thigh bone. Tell your doctor right away if you have pain in your upper leg or groin. Tell your doctor if you have any pain that does not go away or that gets worse.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. If you get a rash while taking this medicine, sunlight may cause the rash to get worse. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.